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The Manual Handling Training System - Frequently Asked Questions

The FETAC Level 6 Manual Handling Instruction and People Handling Instruction Awards are now managed by Quality and Qualifications in Ireland. (QQI)

Further information on training providers who offer the FETAC Level 6 Manual Handling Instruction and People Handling Instruction Awards can be obtained by referring to the Quality and Qualifications Ireland (QQI) website at www.qqi.ie

Below are some FAQs related to Manual Handling Training:

Question 1

What is meant by a registered training provider?

A registered training provider is an individual, or a company/organisation, which has agreed their quality assurance procedures with the QQI and is registered with the QQI to provide training courses that lead to FETAC awards.

Question 2

A FETAC Level 6 Manual Handling Instructor has completed RPL and he/she is providing manual handling training to employees; does he/she have to be registered with the QQI

There is no requirement for a FETAC Level 6 Manual Handling Instructor to be registered with the QQI if he/she is providing manual handling training to employees.

The content of training programmes to be delivered by an instructor should meet the requirements set out in Appendix 3 of the H.S.A. guide titled “Guidance on the Manual Handling Training System – 2010”

It is our view that manual handling training needs to be carried out in line with these requirements to ensure that employees have adequate and appropriate knowledge or training.

This manual handling framework offers guidance to employers and other duty holders on what is considered best practice. The employer can use other means to comply with the law, provided he/she is able to prove that they are equivalent to the Irish Guidance on Manual Handling Training and afford the same level of protection

Question 4

Is there an approved list of FETAC Level 6 Instructors Manual Handling Instructors?

No, the Health and Safety Authority does not have a list of approved FETAC Level 6 Manual Handling Instructors.

Our only requirement is that Manual Handling Training at workplace level should be delivered by a FETAC Level 6 Manual Handling Instructor.

Question 5

How often should refresher manual handling training be delivered?

There is no set requirement, but it is recommended that refresher training should be provided at intervals not more than every three years or where there is a change in work practices resulting in the introduction of a new system of work related to manual handling or use of equipment to handled loads.

Question 6

Can manual handling training be delivered by a person in-house

Yes, however our requirement is that Manual Handling Training at workplace level should be delivered by a FETAC Level 6 Manual Handling Instructor. This can be an external or an in-house instructor

Question 7

Will there be a need for instructors, who have achieved a FETAC level 6 award for manual handling instruction or people handling instruction, to be re-certified at any stage?

The FETAC level 6 award is an award for life so there is no need for recertification. However continuous professional development (CPD) will be important for instructors to maintain their competence and to remain up to date with ongoing developments in the area of manual handling and people handling. CPD can take any form including refresher training or attendance at conferences in the subject areas or other relevant training. There is no specific time period as to when CPD should occur. Typically CPD is ongoing.